TODAY.AZ / Arts & Entertainment

World-renowned jazzman Al Jarreau: I am excited to perform in Baku once again

13 July 2010 [16:27] - TODAY.AZ
Trend Life interview with world-known American jazzman Al Jarreau.
Al Jarreau is seven-time Grammy winner and the only jazz singer in the history who won a Grammy in three different categories: Jazz, Rhythm & Blues and Pop. He has a star at the Hollywood Alley of Glory.

You first performed in Baku several years ago. Can you share the impressions from your previous trip?

First time I visited Azerbaijan in 2006. I was very surprised that I was invited to perform in Baku. I did not think that my music will be popular and in demand so far beyond America. I was very pleased to accept this invitation and performed for a wonderful audience in Baku who met me with great warmth. We stayed in Baku for two days. I became acquainted with your city and its wonderful people. During my first visit to Azerbaijan, I learned that you appreciate the national musical tradition, which is very commendable. For me it was a fantastic experience. I confess to you that I am excited to perform for the Baku people once again.

In your opinion, why an American jazz is much demanded today?

American jazz is a unique form of art that has evolved over the years. This, in turn, is reflected in national spirit and history of America. After all, the country was formed by the people who came here from all over the world. And to this day jazz is developing under the influence of many cultures of different nationalities.

Did you think about fame and were you striving for it when you first began to sing?

I started singing in church choir when I was only four or five years. I grew up in this environment. This allowed me to realize that I feel happy on stage. As for fame, I actually did not aspire to it back then. I learned to share art with others. I like it when there is an exchange of energy between me and the audience!

How does popularity impact your life?

I am lucky and blessed man who always has bread and butter on the table to eat and who can afford to buy a house and a car. I have all it thanks to music. Once I was creating music in a street. So my popularity and the music are blessing from above, because I get what I want doing what I love.

Do you feel like a star?

To be a star is not the most important part of my life. Health and happiness of my family – my wife and son -  stands in the foreground for me. Their health and happiness largely depend on music because I learn my life through music. I thank God that my life was shaped this way, but not otherwise. Of course, I am grateful to God for the success and fame he gave me. But still music is the most important.

Is there anything that you regret about?

Never. For the past several years, various audience gave me an opportunity to create music on stage, regardless of location - whether it be clubs or opera house. My work is an amazing story that we have. So I thank God for it. I am also grateful to him for every new day and regret about nothing both in my career and life as a whole.


/Trend Life/
URL: http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/70885.html

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